Myth-Busters: Debunking ADHD Myths

Let’s talk about Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder – or- ADHD. Is there any need for its introduction? Umm no, right? As it is no longer a condition that elicits blank stares and empty looks because what we know so far about ADHD is hyperactive and restless kids, right? The reality, however, is a little different. What many don’t realize is that there is still so much to know about ADHD. The only way to accept and understand people with ADHD is to confront some of the myths.

Here are a few myths about ADHD:

#1: You must be Hyperactive to have ADHD

This myth has led to a lot of confusion about ADHD. An individual with the inattentive symptoms may present as daydreamy and easily distracted, disorganized, forgetful, careless. The predominately inattentive type of ADHD is much less disruptive to others around the individual. So, it often gets overlooked.

#2: People with ADHD don’t ‘want’ to focus or complete tasks

It isn’t a matter of desire, but a matter of ability. It’s not that they don’t ‘want’ to follow through on projects, they just can’t because ADHD affects short term memory and as a result, they may have difficulty on completing tasks that require focus or concentration.

#3: ADHD is the result of bad parenting

It’s common for kids with ADHD to struggle with certain behaviors because ADHD affects their self-control due to which they experience feelings of restlessness which leads to inappropriate comments or constant fidgeting

#4: Someone with ADHD is being rude or defiant

Kids with ADHD are often scolded and told: “act your age” but that’s often not possible for them to do. Many children with ADHD also suffer from extreme anxiety symptoms which leads them to behave in a way that reduces their anxiety.

#5: ADHD affects only boys

Girls are just as likely to have ADHD as are boys, and gender makes no difference in the symptoms caused by the disorder. Since girls with ADHD often display fewer behavioral problems and less noticeable symptoms, the difficulties are often overlooked, and boys are more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

There are many myths about ADHD which needs to be challenged and debunked. Problem is that some of these myths have become such an integral part of the ADHD narrative that many mistakes them for a fact. All we can do is to keep an open mind that life with ADHD is a little different but it’s a blessing from God like ours.